15 Years of Design at Stone Hill at Muttontown
We rarely get an opportunity to partner with a client over fifteen years to execute their vision. What started as a master-planned, gated community with European influences is now entering its final phase of landscape design as the last parcel has been sold. Stone Hill at Muttontown features 80 estate homes tucked among 148 acres of rolling hills, mature trees, and manicured grounds. Site by site, we have been designing the landscape architecture of the vast majority of properties in the community.
Initial Planning and Design
Stone Hill at Muttontown is the former estate home of Wall Street baron (and Theodore Roosevelt "Rough Rider") B.K. Stevens. Community developer and sponsor, WB Kirby Hill LLC, purchased the property. They hired Bayview to develop a master plan and approach to the landscape architecture to ensure cohesion with the estate's historic "Gold Coast" aesthetic, integrating lush planting and naturalistic elements and providing a seamless transition from the gatehouse to the private residences. The landscape architecture creates a sense of permanence and maturity despite the newly developed land.
An Evolving Landscape
The community includes 80 plots (ranging from half acre to 4 acres) sold to individuals over 15 years. During this time, Bayview has worked with each homeowner to develop their unique property within the larger community.
The gated community's landscape design evolved by incorporating bespoke elements for each property, adapting to individual homeowner preferences and requirements. The design maintained cohesion by using similar materials and design motifs while allowing for personalization in features like pools, outdoor kitchens, and gardens. Working closely with the homeowners association, Bayview ensured that communal and private outdoor spaces met the association's standards and vision.
Implementation and Construction
WB Kirby Hill commissioned a group of recommended architects, builders, landscape architects (that’s us!), and engineers to ensure smooth coordination. However, there was still flexibility in choice if a homeowner wanted to use their own design team. For each home, Bayview coordinated closely with the architect, civil engineer, and contractor to align the placement of driveways, walkways, and other features so that they worked best for the individual property while contributing to the overall aesthetic of the community.
Sustaining the Vision
To ensure the longevity of the design vision, our team specified hardy plant species and designed hardscape features that require minimal upkeep. Many properties feature efficient irrigation systems and implement sustainable design features like native plantings and stormwater retention strategies to contribute to a more sustainable development.
The landscape of the community will continue to morph as residents introduce new plantings and update outdoor features to reflect changes in homeowner preferences and environmental conditions. We look forward to continuing our relationships with all the homeowners we have helped through this journey!
